Abstract: The present invention is directed to an optical pointer control having variable image resolution. In one embodiment, the pointer control includes a mechanism for adjusting the position of the lens or sensor relative to the navigation surface, and hence adjusting the image resolution. The mechanism for adjusting the position of the lens or sensor within the optical pointer control can include mechanical, electromechanical and electronic components to adjust the position of the lens and/or sensor relative to the navigation surface. The mechanism may be controlled via a microcontroller. The present invention is also directed to a method for allowing a user to control resolution of an optical mouse during operation. The lens and/or sensor position can be optimized, for example by an actuator, in response to a predetermined optical path.